US20180081169A1 - Camera lens washing device - Google Patents

Camera lens washing device Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20180081169A1
US20180081169A1 US15/267,938 US201615267938A US2018081169A1 US 20180081169 A1 US20180081169 A1 US 20180081169A1 US 201615267938 A US201615267938 A US 201615267938A US 2018081169 A1 US2018081169 A1 US 2018081169A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
camera lens
outer housing
inner ring
washing device
lens washing
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
US15/267,938
Other versions
US10268038B2 (en
Inventor
Vladimir Karasik
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Methode Electronics Inc
Original Assignee
Methode Electronics Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Methode Electronics Inc filed Critical Methode Electronics Inc
Priority to US15/267,938 priority Critical patent/US10268038B2/en
Assigned to METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. reassignment METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: KARASIK, VLADIMIR
Priority to US15/428,706 priority patent/US10422992B2/en
Priority to US15/491,551 priority patent/US10391523B2/en
Priority to DE112017004676.9T priority patent/DE112017004676T5/en
Priority to PCT/US2017/049383 priority patent/WO2018052715A1/en
Priority to US15/802,933 priority patent/US10682988B2/en
Publication of US20180081169A1 publication Critical patent/US20180081169A1/en
Publication of US10268038B2 publication Critical patent/US10268038B2/en
Application granted granted Critical
Priority to US16/744,782 priority patent/US20200156596A1/en
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current
Adjusted expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60S—SERVICING, CLEANING, REPAIRING, SUPPORTING, LIFTING, OR MANOEUVRING OF VEHICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60S1/00—Cleaning of vehicles
    • B60S1/02—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices
    • B60S1/56—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices specially adapted for cleaning other parts or devices than front windows or windscreens
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B27/00—Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups G02B1/00 - G02B26/00, G02B30/00
    • G02B27/0006—Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups G02B1/00 - G02B26/00, G02B30/00 with means to keep optical surfaces clean, e.g. by preventing or removing dirt, stains, contamination, condensation
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B7/00—Mountings, adjusting means, or light-tight connections, for optical elements
    • G02B7/02—Mountings, adjusting means, or light-tight connections, for optical elements for lenses
    • G02B7/026—Mountings, adjusting means, or light-tight connections, for optical elements for lenses using retaining rings or springs
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
    • G03B—APPARATUS OR ARRANGEMENTS FOR TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS OR FOR PROJECTING OR VIEWING THEM; APPARATUS OR ARRANGEMENTS EMPLOYING ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR
    • G03B17/00—Details of cameras or camera bodies; Accessories therefor
    • G03B17/02—Bodies
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
    • G03B—APPARATUS OR ARRANGEMENTS FOR TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS OR FOR PROJECTING OR VIEWING THEM; APPARATUS OR ARRANGEMENTS EMPLOYING ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR
    • G03B17/00—Details of cameras or camera bodies; Accessories therefor
    • G03B17/56—Accessories
    • G03B17/568—

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a device for effectively and efficiently washing a lens of a camera, such as a camera located on a vehicle, that has a simplified design with no impact on the angle of view.
  • the present invention may provide a camera lens washing device that includes an outer housing that has a main opening for receiving a camera lens, an attachment end configured to mount to a camera housing of the camera lens, and an exposed end remote from the attachment end.
  • the exposed end includes an end face that has a recessed area extending inwardly therefrom.
  • An inner ring is received in the recessed area of the outer housing which is configured to frame the camera lens.
  • a plurality of nozzles are defined between the outer housing and the inner ring. The plurality of nozzles are configured to discharge fluid radially inwardly towards the camera lens.
  • the inner ring may be substantially stationary with respect to the outer housing.
  • the present invention may also provide a camera lens washing device that includes an outer housing that has a main opening for receiving a camera lens.
  • the main opening has opposite top and bottom sides.
  • the outer housing also has an attachment end configured to mount to a camera housing of the camera lens and an exposed end remote from the attachment end.
  • the exposed end includes an end face that has a recessed area extending inwardly therefrom.
  • An inner ring is received in the recessed area of the outer housing which is configured to frame the camera lens.
  • a plurality of nozzles are defined between the outer housing and the inner ring.
  • the plurality of nozzles may be disposed at or near the top side of the main opening of the outer housing such that the plurality of nozzles are configured to discharge fluid radially inwardly towards the bottom side of the main opening of the outer housing.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a camera lens washing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
  • FIG. 2 is side elevational cross-sectional view of the camera lens washing device illustrated in FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the camera lens washing device illustrated in FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a housing subassembly of the camera lens washing device illustrated in FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the housing subassembly illustrated in FIG. 4 ;
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a camera lens washing device according to an alternative exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the camera lens washing device illustrated in FIG. 6 .
  • the present invention relates to a washing device 100 and 100 ′ for a camera lens 10 , such as for a camera mounted on a vehicle.
  • the camera lens washing device 100 and 100 ′ has a simplified design while providing improving washing and field of view of the lens.
  • the camera lens washing device 100 and 100 ′ includes an outer housing 102 and an inner ring 104 that cooperate with one another to form multiple nozzles 106 therebetween that are preferably disposed around a top side of the camera lens 10 for discharging fluid, such as water or other lens washing fluid, radially inwardly and toward the camera lens 10 for cleaning the same.
  • the washing fluid is preferably under pressure to be distributed through the nozzles 106 creating multiple fluid jets from different locations toward the center of the camera lens 10 .
  • the camera lens washing device 100 and 100 ′ has an improved compact design and camera field of view.
  • Outer housing 102 generally includes a main body 110 that may be substantially ring shaped and includes a main opening 112 therein for receiving the camera lens 10 .
  • One end of main body 110 is an attachment end 114 configured to mount to a camera housing 12 of the lens 10 .
  • the other end of main body 110 is an exposed end 116 , as best seen in FIG. 1 .
  • attachment end 114 includes one or more latching arms 118 that extend from main body 110 in a direction away from exposed end 116 for snap fitting onto the camera housing 12 .
  • attachment end 114 may include other known methods of attachment, such as screw fastening or adhesive.
  • Main opening 112 of outer housing 102 includes a top side 120 and an opposite bottom side 122 .
  • a fluid source attachment 124 is provided in the outer housing 102 that is configured for engagement with a fluid source, such as a water hose or line.
  • Fluid source attachment 124 may be an extension with an inner bore 126 in fluid communication with the nozzles 106 .
  • Fluid source attachment 124 is preferably located at the top side 120 of main opening 112 in outer housing 102 to allow the fluid to flow downwardly towards the nozzles 106 .
  • Exposed end 116 of outer housing 102 includes an end face 130 .
  • a recessed area 132 extends inwardly from end face 130 for accepting inner ring 104 .
  • Extending inwardly from main opening 112 are spaced tabs 134 which define fluid path slots 136 therebetween, as best seen in FIGS. 4 and 5 , which are in fluid communication with fluid source attachment 124 .
  • Spaces tabs 134 may be located adjacent to recessed area 132 .
  • an alignment member 138 Remote from the spaced tabs 134 on main body 110 is an alignment member 138 for aligning inner ring 104 with respect to outer housing 102 .
  • Inner ring 104 is configured and sized to frame the camera lens 10 , as best seen in FIG. 1 .
  • Inner ring 104 is preferably formed separately from outer housing 102 and is received in recessed area 132 of outer housing 102 .
  • Inner ring 104 may be fixed to outer housing 102 , such as by laser welding inner ring 104 in recessed area 132 or by other known attachments.
  • Inner ring 104 includes a mounting face 140 ( FIG. 5 ) that engages recessed area 132 and an opposite exposed face ( FIG. 1 ) 142 .
  • An inner diameter surface 144 of inner ring 104 is between mounting face 140 and exposed face 142 .
  • exposed face 142 of inner ring 104 does not extend beyond and is substantially flush with end face 130 of outer housing 102 , as seen in FIG. 2 , thereby not negatively impacting the camera's field of view.
  • a plurality of channels 150 are provided in inner diameter surface 144 of inner ring 104 , as best seen in FIGS. 4 and 5 .
  • Channels 150 substantially align with fluid path slots 136 of outer housing 102 to form the nozzles 106 .
  • Each channel 150 substantially aligns with one of the fluid path slots 136 to form one of the nozzles 106 .
  • Each channel 150 preferably extends into mounting face 140 of inner ring 104 and may include a step 152 to facilitate fluid flow through nozzles 106 .
  • alignment member 154 Remote from channels 150 is an alignment member 154 that corresponds to alignment member 138 of outer housing 102 to ensure proper alignment between inner ring 104 and outer housing 104 to form the nozzles 106 .
  • alignment member 154 may be a protruding flange ( FIG. 5 ), for example, and alignment member 138 may be a cut-out in main body 110 sized to accept flange 154 , or vice versa.
  • the alignment member 138 preferably includes a channel that allows the fluid or water from the fluid source attachment 126 to pass therethrough to the channels 150 and slots 136 of nozzles 106 .
  • Nozzles 106 are preferably located at or near the top side 120 of main opening 112 such that fluid from fluid source attachment 124 can flow downwardly through slots 136 and channels 150 so that nozzles 106 discharge the fluid directly onto the camera lens 10 . And because nozzles 106 are on the top of the lens 10 , gravity will subsequently wash away the fluid from the lens 10 . In a preferred embodiment, none of the nozzles 106 are located at the bottom, that is the bottom side 122 of the main opening 112 such that the nozzles 106 are only provided near or at top side 120 . The nozzles 106 may be evenly spaced from one another and radially arranged with respect to the lens 10 , as best seen in FIG. 4 .
  • a sealing member 160 ( FIG. 3 ), such as a seal ring, may be provided on attachment end 114 to seal the plurality of channels 150 and slots 136 between inner ring 104 and outer housing 102 .
  • FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the camera lens washing device 100 ′.
  • Camera lens washing device 100 ′ is substantially the same as the camera lens washing device 100 of the first embodiment, except that the outer housing 102 ′ thereof includes shroud extension 200 for attaching to a camera module 14 that supports the camera lens 10 .
  • Shroud extension 200 replaces latch arms 118 and may include an engagement member 202 , such as a plurality of teeth, for engaging the camera module 14 .
  • Shroud extension 200 is extends away from the exposed end 116 of outer housing 102 ′ and is preferably sized to substantially surround the camera lens.

Landscapes

  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Structure And Mechanism Of Cameras (AREA)

Abstract

A camera lens washing device that includes an outer housing that has a main opening for receiving a camera lens, an attachment end configured to mount to a camera housing of the camera lens, and an exposed end remote from the attachment end. The exposed end includes an end face that has a recessed area extending inwardly therefrom. An inner ring is received in the recessed area of the outer housing. The inner ring is configured to frame the camera lens. A plurality of nozzles are defined between the outer housing and the inner ring. The plurality of nozzles are configured to discharge fluid radially inwardly towards the camera lens. The inner ring may be substantially stationary with respect to the outer housing. The nozzles may be disposed at or near a top side of the main opening of the outer housing.

Description

    FIELD OF THE INVENTION
  • The present invention relates to a device for effectively and efficiently washing a lens of a camera, such as a camera located on a vehicle, that has a simplified design with no impact on the angle of view.
    • BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • The lenses of cameras mounted to vehicles often become dirty due to environmental and weather conditions, thereby impacting safe driving. Cleaning devices exists to address this problem. See, for example, U.S. Published Patent Application Nos. 2016/0103316 to Rousseau, 2016/0101735 to Trebouet, 2016/0001330 to Romack et al, 2015/0344001 to Lopez Galera et al., 2015/0343999 to Lopez Galera et al., 2015/0203077 to Gokan, and 2011/0292212 to Tanabe et al., the subject matter of each of which is herein incorporated by reference. However, such conventional cleaning devices are often ineffective, bulky, and obstruct the camera's field of view.
  • Therefore, a need exists for a camera lens washing device that effectively and efficiently washes the camera lens while also having a compact profile and not obstructing the field of view of the camera lens.
    • SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
  • Accordingly, the present invention may provide a camera lens washing device that includes an outer housing that has a main opening for receiving a camera lens, an attachment end configured to mount to a camera housing of the camera lens, and an exposed end remote from the attachment end. The exposed end includes an end face that has a recessed area extending inwardly therefrom. An inner ring is received in the recessed area of the outer housing which is configured to frame the camera lens. A plurality of nozzles are defined between the outer housing and the inner ring. The plurality of nozzles are configured to discharge fluid radially inwardly towards the camera lens. The inner ring may be substantially stationary with respect to the outer housing.
  • The present invention may also provide a camera lens washing device that includes an outer housing that has a main opening for receiving a camera lens. The main opening has opposite top and bottom sides. The outer housing also has an attachment end configured to mount to a camera housing of the camera lens and an exposed end remote from the attachment end. The exposed end includes an end face that has a recessed area extending inwardly therefrom. An inner ring is received in the recessed area of the outer housing which is configured to frame the camera lens. A plurality of nozzles are defined between the outer housing and the inner ring. The plurality of nozzles may be disposed at or near the top side of the main opening of the outer housing such that the plurality of nozzles are configured to discharge fluid radially inwardly towards the bottom side of the main opening of the outer housing.
    • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • A more complete appreciation of the invention and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawing figures:
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a camera lens washing device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
  • FIG. 2 is side elevational cross-sectional view of the camera lens washing device illustrated in FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the camera lens washing device illustrated in FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a housing subassembly of the camera lens washing device illustrated in FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the housing subassembly illustrated in FIG. 4;
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a camera lens washing device according to an alternative exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and
  • FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the camera lens washing device illustrated in FIG. 6.
    •  DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
  • Referring to FIGS. 1-7, the present invention relates to a washing device 100 and 100′ for a camera lens 10, such as for a camera mounted on a vehicle. The camera lens washing device 100 and 100′ has a simplified design while providing improving washing and field of view of the lens. In general, the camera lens washing device 100 and 100′ includes an outer housing 102 and an inner ring 104 that cooperate with one another to form multiple nozzles 106 therebetween that are preferably disposed around a top side of the camera lens 10 for discharging fluid, such as water or other lens washing fluid, radially inwardly and toward the camera lens 10 for cleaning the same. The washing fluid is preferably under pressure to be distributed through the nozzles 106 creating multiple fluid jets from different locations toward the center of the camera lens 10. The camera lens washing device 100 and 100′ has an improved compact design and camera field of view.
  • Outer housing 102 generally includes a main body 110 that may be substantially ring shaped and includes a main opening 112 therein for receiving the camera lens 10. One end of main body 110 is an attachment end 114 configured to mount to a camera housing 12 of the lens 10. The other end of main body 110 is an exposed end 116, as best seen in FIG. 1. In one embodiment, attachment end 114 includes one or more latching arms 118 that extend from main body 110 in a direction away from exposed end 116 for snap fitting onto the camera housing 12. Alternatively, attachment end 114 may include other known methods of attachment, such as screw fastening or adhesive. Main opening 112 of outer housing 102 includes a top side 120 and an opposite bottom side 122. A fluid source attachment 124 is provided in the outer housing 102 that is configured for engagement with a fluid source, such as a water hose or line. Fluid source attachment 124 may be an extension with an inner bore 126 in fluid communication with the nozzles 106. Fluid source attachment 124 is preferably located at the top side 120 of main opening 112 in outer housing 102 to allow the fluid to flow downwardly towards the nozzles 106.
  • Exposed end 116 of outer housing 102 includes an end face 130. A recessed area 132 extends inwardly from end face 130 for accepting inner ring 104. Extending inwardly from main opening 112 are spaced tabs 134 which define fluid path slots 136 therebetween, as best seen in FIGS. 4 and 5, which are in fluid communication with fluid source attachment 124. Spaces tabs 134 may be located adjacent to recessed area 132. Remote from the spaced tabs 134 on main body 110 is an alignment member 138 for aligning inner ring 104 with respect to outer housing 102.
  • Inner ring 104 is configured and sized to frame the camera lens 10, as best seen in FIG. 1. Inner ring 104 is preferably formed separately from outer housing 102 and is received in recessed area 132 of outer housing 102. Inner ring 104 may be fixed to outer housing 102, such as by laser welding inner ring 104 in recessed area 132 or by other known attachments. Inner ring 104 includes a mounting face 140 (FIG. 5) that engages recessed area 132 and an opposite exposed face (FIG. 1) 142. An inner diameter surface 144 of inner ring 104 is between mounting face 140 and exposed face 142. In a preferred embodiment, exposed face 142 of inner ring 104 does not extend beyond and is substantially flush with end face 130 of outer housing 102, as seen in FIG. 2, thereby not negatively impacting the camera's field of view.
  • A plurality of channels 150 are provided in inner diameter surface 144 of inner ring 104, as best seen in FIGS. 4 and 5. Channels 150 substantially align with fluid path slots 136 of outer housing 102 to form the nozzles 106. Each channel 150 substantially aligns with one of the fluid path slots 136 to form one of the nozzles 106. Each channel 150 preferably extends into mounting face 140 of inner ring 104 and may include a step 152 to facilitate fluid flow through nozzles 106.
  • Remote from channels 150 is an alignment member 154 that corresponds to alignment member 138 of outer housing 102 to ensure proper alignment between inner ring 104 and outer housing 104 to form the nozzles 106. In one embodiment, alignment member 154 may be a protruding flange (FIG. 5), for example, and alignment member 138 may be a cut-out in main body 110 sized to accept flange 154, or vice versa. The alignment member 138 preferably includes a channel that allows the fluid or water from the fluid source attachment 126 to pass therethrough to the channels 150 and slots 136 of nozzles 106.
  • Other alignment or keying methods may be used as long as channels 150 and slots 136 are substantially aligned in order to form the nozzles 106. Nozzles 106, including tabs 134 and channels 150, are preferably located at or near the top side 120 of main opening 112 such that fluid from fluid source attachment 124 can flow downwardly through slots 136 and channels 150 so that nozzles 106 discharge the fluid directly onto the camera lens 10. And because nozzles 106 are on the top of the lens 10, gravity will subsequently wash away the fluid from the lens 10. In a preferred embodiment, none of the nozzles 106 are located at the bottom, that is the bottom side 122 of the main opening 112 such that the nozzles 106 are only provided near or at top side 120. The nozzles 106 may be evenly spaced from one another and radially arranged with respect to the lens 10, as best seen in FIG. 4.
  • A sealing member 160 (FIG. 3), such as a seal ring, may be provided on attachment end 114 to seal the plurality of channels 150 and slots 136 between inner ring 104 and outer housing 102.
  • FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the camera lens washing device 100′. Camera lens washing device 100′ is substantially the same as the camera lens washing device 100 of the first embodiment, except that the outer housing 102′ thereof includes shroud extension 200 for attaching to a camera module 14 that supports the camera lens 10. Shroud extension 200 replaces latch arms 118 and may include an engagement member 202, such as a plurality of teeth, for engaging the camera module 14. Shroud extension 200 is extends away from the exposed end 116 of outer housing 102′ and is preferably sized to substantially surround the camera lens.
  • While particular embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the invention, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims (24)

1. A camera lens washing device, comprising:
an outer housing having a main opening for receiving a camera lens, an attachment end configured to mount to a camera housing of the camera lens, and an exposed end remote from said attachment end, said exposed end including an end face having a recessed area extending inwardly therefrom;
an inner ring received in said recessed area of said outer housing, said inner ring being configured to frame the camera lens; and
a plurality of nozzles defined between said outer housing and said inner ring, said plurality of nozzles being configured to discharge fluid radially inwardly towards the camera lens,
wherein said inner ring is substantially stationary with respect to said outer housing.
2. A camera lens washing device according to claim 1, wherein
said outer housing includes a plurality of tabs extending inwardly into said main opening, said plurality of tabs defining fluid path slots therebetween; and
said inner ring includes an inner diameter surface, said inner diameter surface having a plurality of channels, each of said plurality of channels substantially aligns with one of said fluid path slots of said outer housing to form one of said plurality of nozzles.
3. A camera lens washing device according to claim 2, wherein
said outer housing and said inner ring include corresponding alignment members for engaging one another and substantially aligning each of said fluid path slots with each of said plurality of channels, respectively.
4. A camera lens washing device according to claim 2, wherein
said inner ring includes a mounting face for engaging said outer housing and an exposed face opposite said mounting face, said inner diameter surface being between said mounting face and said exposed face.
5. A camera lens washing device according to claim 4, wherein
said plurality of channels extend into said mounting face of said inner ring.
6. A camera lens washing device according to claim 4, wherein
said exposed face of said inner ring is substantially flush with said end face of said housing.
7. A camera lens washing device according to claim 1, wherein
a sealing member is disposed on said attachment end of said outer housing.
8. A camera lens washing device according to claim 1, wherein
said inner ring is separate from said outer housing.
9. A camera lens washing device according to claim 1, wherein
said inner ring is welded to said recessed area of said outer housing.
10. A camera lens washing device according to claim 1, wherein
said outer ring includes a fluid source attachment in fluid communication with said fluid path slots of said main opening.
11. A camera lens washing device according to claim 1, wherein
one or more latching arms extend from said attachment end of said outer housing away from said exposed end for engaging the camera housing.
12. A camera lens washing device according to claim 1, wherein
said attachment end of said outer housing includes a shroud extension extending away from said exposed end.
13. A camera lens washing device, comprising:
an outer housing having a main opening for receiving a camera lens, said main opening having opposite top and bottom sides, said outer housing having an attachment end configured to mount to a camera housing of the camera lens and an exposed end remote from said attachment end, said exposed end including an end face having a recessed area extending inwardly therefrom;
an inner ring received in said recessed area of said outer housing, said inner ring being configured to frame the camera lens; and
a plurality of nozzles defined between said outer housing and said inner ring, said plurality of nozzles being disposed at or near said top side of said main opening of said outer housing such that said plurality of nozzles are configured to discharge fluid radially inwardly towards said bottom side of said main opening of said outer housing.
14. A camera lens washing system according to claim 13, wherein
none of said plurality of nozzles are located at or near said bottom side of said main opening of said outer housing.
15. A camera lens washing system according to claim 14 wherein
said plurality nozzles being evenly spaced and radially arranged with respect to the main opening.
16. A camera lens washing system according to claim 14, wherein
said outer housing includes a plurality of tabs extending inwardly into said main opening, said plurality of tabs defining fluid path slots therebetween; and
said inner ring includes an inner diameter surface, said inner diameter surface having a plurality of channels, each of said plurality of channels substantially aligns with one of said fluid path slots of said outer housing to form one of said plurality of nozzles.
17. A camera lens washing system according to claim 16 wherein
said outer housing and said inner ring include corresponding alignment members for engaging one another and substantially aligning each of said fluid path slots with each of said plurality of channels, respectively.
18. A camera lens washing device according to claim 16, wherein
said inner ring includes a mounting face for engaging said outer housing and an exposed face opposite said mounting face, said inner diameter surface being between said mounting face and said exposed face.
19. A camera lens washing device according to claim 18, wherein
said plurality of channels extend into said mounting face of said inner ring.
20. A camera lens washing device according to claim 19, wherein
said exposed face of said inner ring is substantially flush with said end face of said housing.
21. A camera lens washing device according to claim 13, wherein
said inner ring is separate from said outer housing.
22. A camera lens washing device according to claim 13, wherein
said outer ring includes a fluid source attachment in fluid communication with said fluid path slots of said main opening.
23. A camera lens washing device according to claim 13, wherein
one or more latching arms extend from said attachment end of said outer housing away from said exposed end for engaging the camera housing.
24. A camera lens washing system according to claim 13, wherein
said inner ring is substantially stationary with respect to said outer housing.
US15/267,938 2016-09-16 2016-09-16 Camera lens washing device Expired - Fee Related US10268038B2 (en)

Priority Applications (7)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US15/267,938 US10268038B2 (en) 2016-09-16 2016-09-16 Camera lens washing device
US15/428,706 US10422992B2 (en) 2016-09-16 2017-02-09 Camera lens washing device
US15/491,551 US10391523B2 (en) 2016-09-16 2017-04-19 Sensor washing device
PCT/US2017/049383 WO2018052715A1 (en) 2016-09-16 2017-09-14 Camera lens/sensor washing device
DE112017004676.9T DE112017004676T5 (en) 2016-09-16 2017-09-14 Camera Lens / sensor cleaning device
US15/802,933 US10682988B2 (en) 2016-09-16 2017-11-03 Enhanced washing device for vehicle accessory
US16/744,782 US20200156596A1 (en) 2016-09-16 2020-01-16 Enhanced washing device for vehicle accessory

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US15/267,938 US10268038B2 (en) 2016-09-16 2016-09-16 Camera lens washing device

Related Child Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US15/428,706 Continuation-In-Part US10422992B2 (en) 2016-09-16 2017-02-09 Camera lens washing device

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20180081169A1 true US20180081169A1 (en) 2018-03-22
US10268038B2 US10268038B2 (en) 2019-04-23

Family

ID=61621020

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US15/267,938 Expired - Fee Related US10268038B2 (en) 2016-09-16 2016-09-16 Camera lens washing device

Country Status (1)

Country Link
US (1) US10268038B2 (en)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20180134258A1 (en) * 2016-11-17 2018-05-17 GM Global Technology Operations LLC Circular spray nozzle system and method for cleaning a cylindrical surface of a component
US20200156597A1 (en) * 2017-04-12 2020-05-21 Continental Automotive Gmbh Cleaning device for cleaning a transparent element of an optical or optoelectronic device

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US10928225B1 (en) 2019-09-19 2021-02-23 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Vehicle sensor assembly

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20040218042A1 (en) * 2003-03-31 2004-11-04 Mazda Motor Corporation Monitoring system for vehicle
US20150185592A1 (en) * 2012-07-02 2015-07-02 Agricam Ab Camera housings, camera modules, and monitoring systems
US20160272163A1 (en) * 2015-03-17 2016-09-22 Magna Electronics Inc. Vehicle camera with lens washer system

Family Cites Families (49)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5588055A (en) 1995-01-27 1996-12-24 Williamson; Robert Telephone holder with mounting assembly
US5779205A (en) 1996-12-23 1998-07-14 Ching; Allen Extensible windshield portable phone holder
FR2858280B1 (en) 2003-07-29 2008-12-26 Valeo Systemes Dessuyage REAR VISION DEVICE FOR MOTOR VEHICLE
DE102006035991A1 (en) 2006-08-02 2008-02-14 A. Raymond Et Cie Device for holding a camera on a support
DE102006039192A1 (en) 2006-08-22 2008-02-28 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst Gmbh & Co. Kg Device for opening a vehicle lock and for image acquisition in the exterior of the vehicle
DE102006048373A1 (en) 2006-10-09 2008-04-10 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst Gmbh & Co. Kg Device for a motor vehicle with a rotatably mounted camera unit
DE102007052402B4 (en) 2007-10-31 2020-12-17 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst Gmbh & Co. Kg Device with a camera unit and method for operating such a device
JP4497193B2 (en) 2007-11-09 2010-07-07 ソニー株式会社 Camera mounting structure, camera mounting method, and vehicle exterior panel component
DE102008044840A1 (en) 2008-08-28 2010-03-04 Leopold Kostal Gmbh & Co. Kg Sensor arrangement for a motor vehicle
DE102009015610A1 (en) 2009-04-02 2010-10-07 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst Gmbh & Co. Kg Device with a camera unit for image acquisition of the exterior of a motor vehicle
DE102010001108A1 (en) 2010-01-15 2011-07-21 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst GmbH & Co. KG, 42551 Device for a motor vehicle with a movably mounted camera unit and motor vehicle
US8671504B2 (en) 2010-04-28 2014-03-18 Denso Corporation Cover of vehicle optical sensor and vehicle optical sensor device
US20110292212A1 (en) 2010-05-27 2011-12-01 Asmo Co., Ltd. Washer nozzle for vehicle mounted camera, vehicle mounted camera, and washer device for vehicle
DE102010045214A1 (en) 2010-09-13 2012-03-15 Audi Ag Camera assembly for a vehicle and method for installing a camera assembly in a vehicle
DE102010060573A1 (en) 2010-11-16 2012-05-16 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst Gmbh & Co. Kg Device with a camera unit and a protective element, which has a compact trajectory
JP5316562B2 (en) 2011-02-10 2013-10-16 株式会社デンソー Car camera
DE102011000684A1 (en) 2011-02-11 2012-08-16 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst Gmbh & Co. Kg adjustment module
DE102011000683A1 (en) 2011-02-11 2012-08-16 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst Gmbh & Co. Kg Mounting assembly for simplified mounting on the vehicle
US10350647B2 (en) 2011-03-10 2019-07-16 Dlhbowles, Inc. Integrated automotive system, nozzle assembly and remote control method for cleaning an image sensor's exterior or objective lens surface
DE102011078230B4 (en) 2011-06-28 2016-06-09 Kendrion Kuhnke Automotive GmbH Device for moving an object
DE102011108594A1 (en) 2011-07-26 2013-01-31 Daimler Ag Fastening arrangement of a sensor element on a fastening element of a motor vehicle
US8857687B1 (en) 2011-08-11 2014-10-14 Byungseol An Car mount for an electronic device
WO2013116277A1 (en) 2012-02-02 2013-08-08 Illinois Tool Works Inc. Vehicle camera-securing assembly
JP5853795B2 (en) 2012-03-19 2016-02-09 株式会社デンソー Car camera
JP5761100B2 (en) 2012-03-28 2015-08-12 株式会社デンソー Car camera
CN104470771B (en) 2012-07-11 2016-08-17 日产自动车株式会社 The cleaning device of vehicle-mounted vidicon and the cleaning method of vehicle-mounted vidicon
US9380190B2 (en) 2012-08-06 2016-06-28 Gentex Corporation Rotating lens apparatus
DE102012109611A1 (en) 2012-10-10 2014-04-10 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst Gmbh & Co. Kg Device for receiving a camera with four joints
DE102012109609A1 (en) 2012-10-10 2014-04-10 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst Gmbh & Co. Kg Device for receiving a camera with linear guide
DE102012025626A1 (en) 2012-10-10 2014-04-10 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst Gmbh & Co. Kg Device for receiving a camera with four joints
RU2016105765A (en) 2013-07-22 2017-08-25 МОРГАН ЭДВАНСТ МАТИРИАЛЗ ПиЭлСи. COMPOSITIONS OF INORGANIC FIBERS
JP5947759B2 (en) 2013-07-23 2016-07-06 本田技研工業株式会社 Camera unit
US9487161B2 (en) 2013-10-04 2016-11-08 Magna Mirrors Of America, Inc. Accessory system for a vehicle
DE102014202072A1 (en) 2014-01-24 2015-07-30 Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft Device for cleaning an optical lens of a parking assistance camera
EP3105083B1 (en) 2014-02-11 2017-09-20 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst GmbH & Co. KG Camera device with auxiliary function
DE102014101685A1 (en) 2014-02-11 2015-08-13 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst Gmbh & Co. Kg camera device
DE102015101962A1 (en) 2014-02-11 2015-08-13 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst Gmbh & Co. Kg Compact camera device
EP2949521B1 (en) 2014-05-27 2019-07-24 Fico Transpar, S.A. Cleaning device and system for vehicle-mounted optic surface and vehicle-mounted optic sensor with cleaning device
EP2949520B1 (en) 2014-05-27 2018-03-21 Fico Transpar, S.A. System for cleaning a vehicle-mounted optic lens
US9910272B2 (en) 2014-06-10 2018-03-06 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Integrated camera mounting and image window cleaning device
FR3027007B1 (en) 2014-10-10 2017-12-08 Valeo Systemes Dessuyage DEVICE FOR CLEANING A DRIVING CAMERA FOR DRIVING A MOTOR VEHICLE
FR3027008B1 (en) 2014-10-10 2017-12-08 Valeo Systemes Dessuyage DEVICE FOR CLEANING A DRIVING CAMERA FOR DRIVING A MOTOR VEHICLE
US9150165B1 (en) 2014-11-21 2015-10-06 Nissan North America, Inc. Vehicle camera assembly
DE102014117165A1 (en) 2014-11-24 2016-05-25 Kautex Textron Gmbh & Co. Kg Vehicle integrated vision and cleaning system
DE102015102726A1 (en) 2015-02-19 2016-08-25 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst Gmbh & Co. Kg Arrangement of a vehicle
DE102015107070A1 (en) 2015-05-06 2016-11-10 Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst Gmbh & Co. Kg Device for image capturing an exterior of a motor vehicle
EP3103684B1 (en) 2015-06-11 2018-01-03 Continental Automotive GmbH Camera bracket for a vehicle
DE102015217546B3 (en) * 2015-09-14 2017-03-02 Continental Automotive Gmbh Cleaning device for cleaning a transparent cover of a camera
DE102015013315A1 (en) 2015-10-14 2017-04-20 GM Global Technology Operations LLC (n. d. Ges. d. Staates Delaware) Vehicle with camera unit

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20040218042A1 (en) * 2003-03-31 2004-11-04 Mazda Motor Corporation Monitoring system for vehicle
US20150185592A1 (en) * 2012-07-02 2015-07-02 Agricam Ab Camera housings, camera modules, and monitoring systems
US20160272163A1 (en) * 2015-03-17 2016-09-22 Magna Electronics Inc. Vehicle camera with lens washer system

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20180134258A1 (en) * 2016-11-17 2018-05-17 GM Global Technology Operations LLC Circular spray nozzle system and method for cleaning a cylindrical surface of a component
US10232828B2 (en) * 2016-11-17 2019-03-19 GM Global Technology Operations LLC Circular spray nozzle system and method for cleaning a cylindrical surface of a component
US20200156597A1 (en) * 2017-04-12 2020-05-21 Continental Automotive Gmbh Cleaning device for cleaning a transparent element of an optical or optoelectronic device

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US10268038B2 (en) 2019-04-23

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US10391523B2 (en) Sensor washing device
US10752219B2 (en) Cleaning device for cleaning a transparent camera cover
US10821941B2 (en) Foreign material adhesion preventing device and camera device provided with same
US10268038B2 (en) Camera lens washing device
US20200156596A1 (en) Enhanced washing device for vehicle accessory
CN105128826B (en) The cleaning device and system of vehicle-mounted optical surface and vehicle-mounted optical sensor with cleaning device
EP3489091B1 (en) Integrated image sensor support and method for simultaneously cleaning a plurality of image sensors
US8792003B2 (en) Camera device
EP3489098B1 (en) Integrated automotive system, compact, low-profile nozzle assembly and compact fluidic circuit for cleaning a wide-angle image sensor's exterior surface
US10422992B2 (en) Camera lens washing device
US20110292212A1 (en) Washer nozzle for vehicle mounted camera, vehicle mounted camera, and washer device for vehicle
CN109312765B (en) Flow control system, jumper hose element and fluid flow management method
US20180319350A1 (en) Automobile Accessory Mounting Support
US9988020B2 (en) Washer nozzle for a screen wash system
EP3872522A2 (en) Lidar base, lidar device and autonomous vehicle
CN115003569A (en) System for cleaning sensors/emitters of a motor vehicle
EP3480069B1 (en) Enhanced washing device for vehicle accessory
CN209746335U (en) camera subassembly and vehicle
US20180267297A1 (en) Camera module for a motor vehicle
CN110858020A (en) Detachable lens, assembling method thereof and optical imaging device
JP7502074B2 (en) Lens unit, camera module, and automobile equipped with camera module
CN208997033U (en) A kind of mounting structure and the water pump using the mounting structure
CN114289411B (en) Camera assembly
CN210139853U (en) Cleaning device and automobile
KR102052862B1 (en) Front-end module

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: METHODE ELECTRONICS, INC., ILLINOIS

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:KARASIK, VLADIMIR;REEL/FRAME:039975/0530

Effective date: 20160920

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: PUBLICATIONS -- ISSUE FEE PAYMENT VERIFIED

STCF Information on status: patent grant

Free format text: PATENTED CASE

FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: MAINTENANCE FEE REMINDER MAILED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: REM.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY

LAPS Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees

Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED FOR FAILURE TO PAY MAINTENANCE FEES (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: EXP.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY

STCH Information on status: patent discontinuation

Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362

FP Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee

Effective date: 20230423